Mahama pledges military modernisation at swearing-in of Armed Forces Council.

President John Dramani Mahama swore in Ghana Armed Forces Council members, reaffirming the government’s commitment to modernising the military and enhancing national security.

During the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama emphasised the critical role of the Armed Forces in safeguarding Ghana’s sovereignty, ensuring peace and stability, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts.

The Council is chaired by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang with Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) and Interior Minister Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak (MP).

He highlighted the evolving nature of global security, citing challenges such as terrorism, cybercrime, and climate-related security risks. He urged the necessity of adapting to modern warfare by utilising drone technology, intelligence gathering, and cybersecurity to ensure Ghana’s military remains prepared for emerging threats.

“Our Armed Forces are the guardians of our sovereignty and protectors of our democracy. Your responsibility as Council members is to provide strategic leadership and oversight to ensure our military remains effective, modern, and disciplined,” he stated.

The president outlined four key priorities of his administration for the Ghana Armed Forces:

1. Capacity-building programmes to equip personnel to handle modern security threats.
2. Investment in advanced military technology to strengthen national defence.
3. Improving infrastructure, including barracks and training facilities.
4. Enhancing welfare systems to support military personnel and their families.

The president also stressed the need for regional security cooperation with organisations like ECOWAS and the African Union to address global security challenges. He called on the newly sworn-in Armed Forces Council to prioritise ethical leadership, accountability, and modernisation as Ghana faces evolving security threats.

“Corruption and misconduct must have no place in our military. Your leadership must inspire confidence and trust, ensuring the highest ethical conduct and accountability standards,” President Mahama urged the Council members.

He thanked the outgoing Council, the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs for their service. He urged the new Council to embrace their responsibility with honour, dedication, and a vision for a stronger, more resilient Ghana Armed Forces.

In her remarks, VP Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, chairperson of the Armed Forces Council, said, “As a council, we accept to serve diligently and loyally with patriotic zeal to reset Ghana and the Ghana Armed Forces, too.”

Story by Ellen Frimpong